Travelling with Reduced Mobility
Are you travelling with reduced mobility? We want to make your journey as comfortable and independent as possible. Our Sprinters and ICNG Intercity trains have sliding steps to make boarding and alighting easier. You can use NS Reisassistentie free of charge. An assistant will help you board and alight.
You may take assistive devices free of charge, such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters and assistance dogs.
On this page you will find everything about travelling with reduced mobility. This includes how to prepare your journey at home, which facilities are available at the station and what we arrange for you on the train.
Travelling with reduced mobility
How to Travel as Independently as Possible
How to Travel as Independently as Possible
All Sprinters and ICNG Intercity trains have sliding steps that reduce the gap between train and platform. When the platform is at the correct height, you can board and alight independently using a mobility aid.
You can easily plan your journey at home using the NS app or the Journey Planner. Select ‘Show only accessible journeys’ under Extra options to immediately see where you can board and alight independently and where assistance can be arranged.
If the platform is not at the correct height, you use a mobility aid with small wheels, low footrests, or have less arm strength, NS Travel Assistance is happy to help you.
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Request NS travel assistance
Request NS travel assistance
Do you need help getting on, changing trains or getting off? Our assistance staff are happy to help you. Here you can read more about NS Reisassistentie, what it is, how it works and how to request it.
You can book NS Reisassistentie online via NS Reisassistentie, via the NS-app or by phone on 030-235 7822. You need a Mijn NS account to book online. You only have to set this up once.
Check Your Mobility Aid: Is It Allowed on the Train?
Check Your Mobility Aid: Is It Allowed on the Train?
Your wheelchair, mobility scooter or assistance dog may travel free of charge on the train. They must meet certain conditions to ensure safe transport for you and your mobility aid. You can read more about these conditions here.
Check Whether the Lifts Are Working
Check Whether the Lifts Are Working
Lifts at stations can sometimes be out of order or undergoing maintenance. We understand how important it is to know if a lift is working, especially if you have a mobility need. This helps you avoid unwelcome surprises during your journey. The NS app and our website show the availability of most lifts in advance, so you can travel with more confidence.
Accessibility of Ticket Machines
Accessibility of Ticket Machines
All NS Ticket Machines are wheelchair accessible. Many machines offer a special wheelchair mode with buttons positioned lower on the screen to make them easier to use. If you prefer personal assistance, there is no extra charge at the service desk for travellers with a (motor) impairment.
Companion travelling on the train
Companion travelling on the train
Are you travelling with a companion? One companion can travel free with you by train, metro, tram and bus using an OV Companion Card. The card is issued in your name, so you decide who accompanies you. You can apply for an OV Companion Card through Argonaut Advies by downloading the application form at ov-begeleiderskaart.nl. If you need help or have any questions, Argonaut Advies can be reached at 030 – 2354661.
Set Extra Transfer Time
Set Extra Transfer Time
When planning your journey, you can add extra transfer time under ‘Travel options’. This gives you more time to change trains calmly.
You can choose up to a maximum of 60 minutes of extra transfer time.
Recognise Wheelchair Spaces and Priority Seats
Recognise Wheelchair Spaces and Priority Seats
You can identify wheelchair spaces by the blue wheelchair symbol on the door. A seat for a companion is always located nearby. All trains have a wheelchair-accessible toilet, and the wheelchair space is clearly marked on the floor.
Priority seats are designed for travellers who find standing for long periods difficult, such as those with motor impairments, older passengers, or expectant mothers. These seats are located near the door and are marked with stickers on the walls.
Exit Side in the NS Journey Planner
Exit Side in the NS Journey Planner
The latest version of the NS Journey Planner shows which side you will exit the train at the arrival station. This helps you be ready on time.
In an emergency at the station or on the train
In an emergency at the station or on the train
Emergencies rarely happen, but you may need immediate assistance. If no NS employee is nearby to help you, you can use the SOS button at the station or on the train.
You will find Service and Alarm Columns at every station, available day and night. You can ask questions here or use the SOS button in an emergency.
Most trains have an SOS button near the seats for passengers with reduced mobility and in the accessible toilet. Pressing this button sends an immediate alert to the train driver, who then contacts the chief train conductor to arrange prompt assistance.